Nose
Aromas range from intensely floral violet and morning sea breeze to
ripe berries, cardamom, black licorice and forest floor.
Palate
On the palate, the wine reveals concentrated blackberry and
marionberry supported by supple, linen-like tannins. Rich dark chocolate plays out over an endless finish. The wine’s
remarkable structure will allow it to age over the next 15 to 20 years.
Growing Conditions
The 2014 growing season in Napa Valley was the third in a string of stunning vintages. Dry, mild temperatures brought
on early budbreak, while the persistent drought helped produce small berries with concentrated flavors and elegant
tannins. The overall length of the growing season was normal, allowing for full ripening and fresh, balanced acidity;
however, given the early start to the crop, it was our earliest harvest on record. This year will go down in history for the
earthquake that rocked Napa just days before harvest. Fortunately, our winery and vineyard were safe, but the greater
community was deeply impacted, and the event defined the entire season.
7 barrels produced.
Bottling
It was bottled unfined and unfiltered. on August 15, 2016.
Winemaking
After harvest in the cool morning hours, grapes were hand-sorted, then gently destemmed. The resulting whole berries
were hand-sorted and 30% were delivered to ferment in 500L oak puncheons to soften the tannins and deepen the color.
The remaining berries were fermented in stainless steel open top tanks to capture a juicy and fresh flavor profile. Once
complete, the fruit was gently pressed and moved to barrel to finish fermentation.
Aging
The wine continued to age in 100%
new Seguin Moreau French oak barrels for 22 months.
Appearance
In the glass, this wine displays a deep garnet hue.
